Celtic Crusaders v Brisbane Broncos preview

Celtic Crusaders will field a squad of 22 players for their Bulmers Original Cider Challenge match against Brisbane Broncos at the Brewery Field in Bridgend this Thursday (kick-off 7.30pm).

In addition to the 17 who played against Widnes Vikings, coach John Dixon has added Andy Boothroyd, Phil Cushion, Grant Epton, Craig Richards and Geraint Davies to a larger than normal substitutes bench.

Boothroyd and Richards will both make their Crusaders debut against the highest possible quality of opposition while for Richards, it will be his first ever game of Rugby League. The former Bridgend, Llanelli and Newport Union winger was transferred to the club in January.

Brisbane Broncos arrived in the country on Wednesday and were bringing with them a squad of just 18. But the 18 players are those of the highest quality in the Rugby League world.